Gov. Jared Polis announced Tuesday that David Oppenheim, a long-time staffer in the governor’s policy office, will become his new chief of staff, effective Sept. 13.

He will replace Alec Garnett, who has been in that role since Jan. 1, 2023. Garnett is headed to UC Health to become vice president for government and regulatory affairs. 

Garnett will join the organization’s executive team, reporting to Jacki Cooper Melmed, who served as chief legal counsel for both Polis and then-Gov. John Hickenlooper from 2015 until 2021.

He replaces Chantell Taylor, who joined the American Academy of Physician Associates as its chief of public affairs and advocacy last April. 

Oppenheim has served in the Polis administration for the entirety of the governor’s time in office, beginning as Polis’ legislative director shortly after the 2018 election. 

In May 2022, he became director of operations and cabinet affairs, and in November 2022 moved into the role of deputy chief of staff for policy and legislation.

Oppenheim also served as chief of staff in the House Majority Office under Speaker Mark Ferrandino (2013-14) and again under Speaker Crisanta Duran in the 2017 session. 

He holds a degree in political science from Lewis & Clark College.

Polis thanked Garnett for his service in Tuesday’s announcement, praising his leadership, particularly during the recent special session. “Alec has committed his career to public service, from his time in the General Assembly, as speaker of the House, and as chief of staff in the governor’s office, his work has made life better for Coloradans. Alec will be missed, but I’m excited to congratulate and welcome David Oppenheim into this role and look forward to his leadership helping us make Colorado even more livable, affordable, safe, and sustainable.”

Garnett served eight years in the House beginning with the 2015 session, representing Denver’s Capitol Hill district. He served as speaker of the House his last two years. From 2011 to 2013 he was executive director of the Colorado Democratic Party. 

He also served as a legislative aide to U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (D-Arvada) and Rep. John Adler (D) of New Jersey.